Stay safe, stay dry: Fiji under heavy rain warning

If you're planning a picnic, weekend outing, or any outdoor activity this week — be prepared.

The National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) has warned that heavy rain and thunderstorms will continue across the Fiji Group due to a slow-moving trough of low pressure bringing persistent rain and thunderstorms.

According to the NDRMO, a Heavy Rain Warning remains in force for the entire country, with possible flash flooding in low-lying areas, informal settlements, and crossings.

Continuous rainfall over the past few days has already saturated the soil, increasing the risk of landslides in some areas.

Members of the public are strongly advised to stay away from attempting to cross or swim in flooded rivers, streams, drains, roads, and walkways where water is above knee level.

Motorists are urged to drive carefully, as surface flooding and poor visibility are expected, particularly in urban areas with poor drainage systems.

The NDRMO is reminding the public to stay updated with the latest weather alerts, assist neighbours, especially the elderly and vulnerable, and contact the Fiji Police Force or National Fire Authority if help is needed to move to higher ground.

Key risks:

• Flash flooding in low-lying areas, informal settlements, and river crossings
• Landslide risk due to saturated soil from continuous rainfall
• Surface flooding in urban areas with poor drainage
• Poor visibility for motorists

Safety advisory:

• Do NOT walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters above knee level
• Avoid travel in affected areas to allow emergency services access
• Assist vulnerable groups and stay updated via official channels

Forecast highlights:

• Today (Nov 7): Light to heavy rain showers with thunderstorms in many areas
• Tomorrow (Nov 8): Heavy rain continues, easing into showers later in the day
• Weekend Outlook: Rain persists with intermittent thunderstorms; brighter spells expected from Sunday onwards